Details: January 2016 Journey to the Balkans

Explore the rich history, beauty, and complexity of the Balkan countries through this fascinating journey of peace to Bosnia-Herzegovina, Serbia, and Albania from January 10-19, 2016! This trip is open to all Muslim and Jewish women and their spouses/partners. A special group airfare is available leaving early evening on January 10. See below for highlights of our itinerary or see our full itinerary.

Discover how the intersection of ethnicity, religion, and nationalism has shaped the history of the region

Meet with local religious leaders, community organizations, and peace activists who are pioneering projects in coexistence.

In Bosnia-Herzegovina, visit the capital of Sarajevo to learn about both the cultural fluorescence of its Jewish community and the tragic history of the 1995 Srebrenica Genocide.

Meet with Jews who helped to save Muslims during the Genocide.

Explore the modern metropolis of Belgrade along the Danube and Sava rivers, where you will have opportunities to build new friendships through meetings with local community groups like Women in Black.

Dive deeper into the histories of Muslim-Jewish coexistence with a trip to Albania.

In the modern capital of Tirana discover the inspiring tales of Muslim protection of Albanian Jews during World War II and learn about efforts to promote peace among the different confessional and ethnic communities in the region.

Meet with Nela Hasic of Women’s Health Empowerment (WHEP) providing support groups and hotlines for breast cancer survivors, free mammogram checks, pap tests, and workshops. Nela’s work is successful through the acknowledgement that cancer is a killer that doesn’t differentiate among ethnicities or religions

Meet the Grand Mufti of Bosnia (lead Islamic community in Bosnia) and visit the Bey’s mosque – the most important mosque in Sarajevo

Meet with members of the Interreligious Council in Bosnia-Herzegovina

During your visit to Albania, you will:

Experience how Albania is the only country in Europe where the number of Jews increased during WWII. The tour in Albania will focus on following anecdotal stories of how Albania was able to save the Jewish community.

Attend Sabbath Services in Albania and share in a traditional Sabbath dinner with the community

Explore Tirana during a walking tour, including a visit to the Peace Bell and the Et’hem Mosque

Tour the State Museum to learn the history of Albania and Albanians that helped save Jewish lives

Meet with representatives working on interfaith efforts (the Inter-Religious Council of Albania)